In December 2025, millions of Spanish pensioners are expecting not only their regular monthly payment but also the traditional Christmas bonus. This month is always special: the holidays are approaching, expenses rise, and receiving their pension becomes even more important. For many, it’s the last major transfer of the year, helping them prepare for family gatherings and Christmas (Navidad) shopping.
Normally, payments from the social security system (Seguridad Social) arrive at the start of the following month, but banks in Spain have long offered early transfers. Thanks to this, pensioners can receive their money before the festive days begin. In December 2025, payment dates are being adjusted since Christmas and Christmas Eve (Nochebuena) fall on Monday and Sunday, respectively.
Payment Schedule
This year, banks have arranged their transfer dates so that clients receive their funds before the main holidays. Unicaja and Bankinter plan to deposit pensions as early as Tuesday, December 23. Major banks such as CaixaBank, Santander, Sabadell, Ibercaja, and Cajamar have scheduled payments for Wednesday, December 24. BBVA, ING, and Kutxabank will credit accounts on Thursday, December 25. Abanca will complete the wave of transfers on Friday, December 26.
Regardless of the bank, the December payment includes not only the standard amount but also an additional Christmas bonus. This is one of two annual extra payments that pensioners in Spain receive. There are 14 payments each year, and the December one is the most anticipated.
Features of December Payments
In December, pensioners receive two payments: their regular pension and a holiday bonus. This is especially important for those planning significant holiday expenses or supporting their families. Banks aim to process payments without delay, so clients can access their funds before the Christmas holidays begin.
This year, the holidays fall at the end of the week, which affects the banks’ operating schedules. Most financial institutions try to complete transfers by December 26. If you have accounts with several banks, it’s advisable to check payment dates in advance—there may be slight differences.
What you need to know
Pensioners receiving payments through a bank account don’t need to worry: all banks guarantee timely deposits. If a transfer is delayed for any reason, it’s recommended to contact your bank branch or check your balance through online banking. December may see minor delays due to higher banking system loads, but payments generally arrive on time.
If you have only recently started receiving your pension, check with your bank when your first payment will be made. Sometimes the date for new clients may differ from the standard schedule. Also, remember that holidays can affect branch hours and ATM availability.
Pensions and plans for 2026
The December payment is the last one of 2025. In January, pensions will be recalculated to account for inflation and new indexation rules. For now, however, all attention is on the December dates: it is especially important not to miss the deposit and to manage these funds wisely ahead of the holidays.
Overall, December is the month when pensioners in Spain can count on double support. Banks do everything possible to ensure the money arrives on time, allowing clients to prepare for Christmas and New Year’s with peace of mind.
